Lawrence A. Barker

November 24, 1928 - July 20, 2026

Lawrence was born and passed away on Barker Road, in the same corner of Post Mills, Vermont that shaped his entire life. A graduate of Thetford Academy, he went on to spend two years at the University of Vermont before returning home to build a life defined by hard work, faith, and family.

Lawrence built his own house from scratch, pouring and wheelbarrowing every bit of concrete himself, all hand-mixed - a testament to the extraordinary strength and work ethic that defined him. Over the decades he worked tirelessly, started a home saw filing business, ran Malmquist Mill Wood Products, and was a staple of the Post Mills community.

For many years, while the clock was still manual, Lawrence faithfully wound the clock in the belfry of the Post Mills Congregational Church each week - the bell it rang was later named the "Barker Bell" in his honor.

Lawrence loved the outdoors. He was an avid ice fisherman on Lake Fairlee, where he kept a bob house and would jig for smelt late into the night alongside his wife. He also loved hunting, fishing, and reading, and each morning began the same simple way: a donut and a cup of coffee. He enjoyed keeping his mind sharp with puzzles and Sudoku.

Above all, Lawrence cherished his family. His home was always open, his stories always ready, and his love for those around him.

Lawrence is survived by his children, Cheryl Lyons and spouse Dennis, Barry Barker and spouse Janice, Sheila Piper and spouse Douglas, and Tina Timmins and spouse Greg; his eight grandchildren, Heidi, Shawn, Lindsay, Lucas, Michael, Arty, Gwendolyn, and Alexandra; and ten loving great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Josephine, and his parents, Lillian and Arthur Barker.

At his request, no funeral service is scheduled. A graveside service will be held, with time and date to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to Post Mills Congregational Church in his honor. Contact: postmillschurch@gmail.com